Amanda Jusino is a brand coach and graphic designer, meaning she can’t work without power.

  • FEMA sees spike in fraudulent cases
  • Officials urging Floridians to watch out for suspicious activity
  • Some people register with FEMA using the identity of others

It’s something she lost back home in Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria hit.

“And to this day we have not gotten electricity back,” Jusino said in Spanish.

In order to continue making a living, she and her family decided to come to Orlando. They’re grateful that the Federal Emergency Management Agency temporarily put them up in a hotel.

However, in light of recent disasters, FEMA said there has been a spike in fraudulent cases.

Officials are urging Floridians to watch out for and report any suspicious activity or potential fraud.

“You look at 2.6 million people and, out of that, a certain percentage are drawn to commit fraud whether it’s here, Puerto Rico, the wildfires,” said David Burns, a spokesperson with FEMA. “Disasters sometimes do bring out the worst in people.”

Those who are caught trying to make fraudulent claims can be charged with a felony and, if convicted, can face a maximum 30 year prison term and up to $250,000 in fines.

Central Florida has seen various types of scams lately such as residents who intentionally claim false losses, people who register with FEMA using the identity of others, or people who pretend to work for the government and offer to help victims for a fee.

 “We stress that FEMA never asks for money. All of our services that we provide are free,” Burns said. “If you’re dealing with any representative they are either wearing a shirt but also ask to see their government issues ID card.”

Jusino says she can’t understand why anyone would take money away from those who truly need it like her family. She wants to use FEMA’s help to move forward. “The one thing we have not found is housing. My hope is that before Nov. 29 we can find a place,” she said.

Con artists can oftentimes take advantage of victims due to language barriers. This is why FEMA is encouraging Florida residents to apply for jobs, especially if they’re bilingual.